The Programs Coordinator is available Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (EST), and on Fridays between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (EST).

Cost:
There is no cost to students or to participating agencies, departments, congressional offices or committees, media organizations, national advocacy groups and government related institutions. Selected fellows, however, receive round-trip transportation to and from Washington, DC, within the United States, health insurance coverage and a stipend of $2,061 per month from the CHCI. This program is designed for recent college graduates (at any level & within one year of graduation) and for currently enrolled graduate students interested in pursuing careers in public policy.

Fellowship Period:
The program is conducted nine months out of the year for 36 weeks from early September to late May.

Application Deadline:CHCI interns usually apply in March; however, the exact date varies. If your office is interested in accepting a fellow, please contact the Program Coordinator.

Geographic Availability:

CHCI places interns in the Washington, DC metropolitan area only.

Selection Process:
Fellows must demonstrate active community involvement and participation through public service, excellent communication and analytical skills, an interest in pursuing a career in public policy and a cumulative GPA of 3.0, or above, on a 4.0 scale. Students must submit the Fellowship application (which is available during the winter) by calling, writing, or e-mailing CHCI. The application is also posted on the CHCI’s Web Site during the winter. The application package includes an application form, a résumé, three reference forms (from a professor, a community leader, and an employer), and the official transcripts. Telephone interviews are conducted for semi-finalists.

Orientation Session/Training:
Upon arrival in September, fellows attend a 1-week orientation to introduce them to CHCI, the program requirements, and the special nature of work in Washington, DC. After the orientation is complete, fellows have two weeks to search for placements where they wish to do their fellowships. Institute staff provides guidance and resources regarding possible placements. In order to offer the fellows exposure to a broad rage of issues and work environments, fellows have the option of changing placements at the midpoint in the program.